Description

18 Day Darwin to Melbourne Safari Package
Tour Price: AUD 2195 + park fees
: AUD 1755 (Child)

Tour Code: PBTASAM

Tour Departs: 7.00am (Darwin)
All Year: Tue, Fri, Sun

Max Passengers: 16 / 24

Ensuite Accommodations Upgrade Options

11nts motel (incl Opal Inn 3 star)
* Twin/Double upgrade per person - AUD465
* Triple upgrade per person - AUD295
* Single upgrade per person - AUD1110

11nts motel (incl Desert Cave 4 star)
* Twin/Double upgrade per person - AUD525
* Triple upgrade per person - AUD345
* Single upgrade per person - AUD1230

Itinerary

Day 1 - Darwin to Mary River
A refreshing start to your day: the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, followed by the spectacular Mary River Wetlands. Birds aren't the only wildlife abundant around here; keep your eyes out for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge is where we'll stay tonight. (LD)

Day 2 - Mary River to Kakadu
Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, our first stop this morning. Clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it's on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (BLD)

Day 3 - Kakadu to Darwin
Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we'll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon. Overnight accommodation included. (BL)

Day 4 - Darwin to Katherine Gorge
Leaving Darwin, we stop for a break at Adelaide River on the way to Katherine. We spend the whole afternoon at the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Experience the striking beauty while canoeing or cruising (at own expense & seasonal) through the gorge itself.Tonight we stay at our permanent camp near Katherine Gorge. (LD)

Day 5 - Katherine Gorge to Tennant Creek
Not far to the south is Mataranka, where you can revive in a sparkling thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Next stop is the iconic Daly Waters outback hotel, the Territory's oldest pub. Nearby lies Australia's first international airport, but you won't get a flight back home from here these days! After lunch, we continue south to Tennant Creek where we camp overnight at Juno Horse Farm. (BLD)

Day 6 - Tennant Creek to Alice Springs
This morning we check out the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously on their rocky perch. From here we stop in at Barrow Creek Pub, home to the historic Telegraph Station catch a glimpse of what Outback telecommunication used to be like! We cross over the Tropic of Capricorn, before arriving early evening into Alice Springs (BL). Overnight dorm accommodation included.

Day 7 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight accommodation included. (Meals at own expense).

Day 8 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight accommodation included. (Meals at own expense).

Day 9 - Alice Springs to Kings Canyon & Uluru
Journey deep into the remote 'Red Centre' as we travel towards Kings Canyon. There's a lot to explore here and we check out the Amphitheatre, Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the sheer outcrops of the North and South Walls. After lunch, we'll pass Mt Connor and Curtin Springs cattle station on the way to Uluru. Tonight, you'll be glad to curl up in your swag (Aussie bedroll) after dinner as millions of stars fill the sky. (LD)

Day 10 - Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Sunrise over Uluru is magical and it's an early start to catch it! While the morning's fresh (and your legs are too!) take a walk around Uluru's base (unguided), or climb to the top if you choose however, the Anangu traditional owners prefer it if you don't. Gain a further insight into the land, its stories and the people who inhabit it at the Cultural Centre, where you'll also have the opportunity to invest in original arts and crafts by Indigenous artists. After refueling with some lunch, we head to fascinating Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) to discover the secrets of this ancient landform and their spiritual significance to the Anangu. A glass of Australia sparkling wine is perfect while the desert sun sets over Uluru before returning to camp for dinner. (BLD)

Day 11 - Uluru to Coober Pedy
We go underground today! After breakfast, we head south through the rugged desert country into South Australia arriving into Coober Pedy in the late afternoon. Our bunkhouse for tonight is you guessed it underground. (BLD)

Day 12 - Coober Pedy to Quorn
This morning we check out the sites of Cooper Pedy on a town tour which includes an opal cutting demonstration and mine tour with the opportunity to try your luck 'noodling' for opals! We continue our journey south and stop at ancient salt lakes which are remnants of an inland sea. We stop at the small town of Glendambo (population 30!) and Pt Augusta before arriving in Quorn, the quaint and historical railway township nestled at the entrance to the Richman Valley. We stay two nights in private accommodation at the historical "Mill". Get ready for tonight's BBQ dinner it doesn't get any more Aussie than this! (LD)

Day 13 - Flinders Ranges & Wilpena Pound
The Flinders Ranges has been recognized as one of Australia's National Landscapes and today you'll get to experience and explore this magical region! Wilpena Pound is a natural amphitheatre located in a huge stone crater and you will spend the morning hiking and exploring its wonder! After lunch, it's a short walk to Yourambulla Caves to view Aboriginal rock paintings. Learn about the hardships of sheep farming in the mid 1800's as you view the ruins of Kanyaka Homestead. As we travel back to Quorn, there's an opportunity to spot for the shy and elusive Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby on a quiet stroll through peaceful Warren Gorge. Overnight at the Quorn "Mill". (BLD)

Day 14 - Quorn to Adelaide
Eat a hearty breakfast, because this afternoon we hike to the summit of Dutchman's Stern for stunning 360° views of Quorn, Spencer Gulf and the Flinders Ranges! We then say farewell to the "Flinders". Near the frontier township of Melrose we take a short walk across a swinging bridge and enjoy panoramic views from the Mt Remarkable lookout. Our last stop is in the infamous Clare Valley before arriving late afternoon into Adelaide. (BL)

Day 15 - Adelaide
A FREE day to explore the sights of Adelaide. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 16 - Adelaide to Grampians NP
Traveling through the picturesque Adelaide Hills, we cross Australia's king of rivers, the mighty Murray, and pass through some little South Australian country towns on our way to the Grampians National Park. Get your legs working this afternoon with hikes at Hollow Mountain and the amazing MacKenzie Falls. We'll be rewarded with breathtaking sunset views from The Balconies and Reeds Lookout before we settle in at our overnight Grampians accommodation. (D)

Day 17 - Grampians NP via the Great Ocean Rd to Princetown
Hiking to the Pinnacle is a challenge, but on the way you'll experience breathtaking views of the national park. Next we head south to the coast and Warrnambool, where you'll have the chance to spot whales (seasonal). There's a lot to explore along the famous Great Ocean Road, renowned for its beauty. Discover the Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Lock Ard Gorge before sunset over the Twelve Apostles gorgeous! Stay overnight in the coastal township of Princetown. (BD)

Day 18 - Princetown to Melbourne
Climb down the Gibson Steps to the beach to get a different angle of the Twelve Apostles, and then we'll spend some time at the Otway Fly, a 25 metre high elevated tree top walk. Continuing on, we pass through the magnificent cool temperate rainforests of the Otway National Park. We'll stop for lunch (own expense) at the coastal town of Apollo Bay. Hugging the coastline, we pass through Lorne, before our next stop where we'll search for koalas. We'll check out the world famous Bells Beach before taking a shopping break at the surfing town Torquay, home of surf labels Quiksilver and Rip Curl. With some bargains in your bags, we make our way into Melbourne and arrive in the early evening. (B)

Bring: Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for AUD15) and money for some meals.

Included: Experienced guides, meals as indicated, accommodation transfers (Adelaide, Alice Springs, Darwin), camping fees & equipment, Opal Mine tour, hostel dorm accommodation where stated (or upgrade to twin/double ensuite), entry to Otway Fly Tree Top Walk.

Note:
- Package includes 11 nights dorm accommodation and 6 nights camping.
- This is a combination safari and you will therefore travel with a different guide and passengers during each section.
- Upgrade accommodation is budget style and may be located on different premises to hostel accommodation.
- Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements.
- Uluru National Park fees of AUD25.00, Kakadu NP boat transfer into Twin Falls of AUD12.50 are payable on morning of departure.
- Safari must be reconfirmed by 4pm the day prior to travel.
- Luggage limit of 15kg.

Highlights

* Litchfiel National Park
* Mary River Wetlands
* Kakadu National Park
* Katherine Gorge
* Mataranka Springs
* Devils Marbles
* Kings Canyon
* Uluru (Ayers Rock)
* Kata Tjuta
* Coober Pedy
* Flinders Ranges
* Gramoians National Park
* Great Ocean Road

Travel Types

• Camping
• Climbing
• Heritage Tourism
• Hiking
• Safari
• Tours

Cost in US$:

from AUD 2195

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Adventure Tours Australia's Mission Statement

Adventure Tours Australia is an award winning company specialising in small group nature-based tours for the active traveller. An extensive range of tours are available exploring the highlights and hidden delights of the Northern Territory, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The tours have an emphasis on the unique scenery, wildlife and Aboriginal culture of each area. Most tours are camping and accommodated safaris catering for budget travellers as well as private charters and deluxe 'Safari in Style' tours in the Northern Territory. Tours range from 1 to 18 days with regular guaranteed departures. Many tours have been conveniently combined into tour packages for those wanting an extended value for money travel options